Do you want to become a Business Analyst? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
Print Page
Business analysts examine business activities and use information technology (IT) to make them more efficient. For example they could produce an IT system that deals with orders, payments, despatch and stock control to save a business time and money.
The work varies according to the employer, but generally they:
• work closely with clients to find out about their business
• research and cost IT solutions to business problems
• design new IT systems, write new software and customise commercial software
• set up and test the new system
• write manuals to provide training for the users of the new system.
The work must be done to deadlines and within budgets while causing as little disruption as possible to the client's business.
The working hours are generally Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm, but extra hours may be required to meet deadlines. Business analysts are usually office based, but they often work in clients' premises. They may travel throughout the UK.
Salaries range from approximately £19,000 to £60,000 or more a year.
A business analyst should:
• have good communication skills to explain complex ideas to people with little or no technical knowledge
• enjoy problem solving
• have a logical mind
• have listening skills to understand what clients need
• be interested in IT.
Employers include management consultancies, software and systems houses, and some computing equipment manufacturers. Some large companies and public sector organisations employ in-house business analysts.
Most entrants are graduates in subjects like computer science, information technology, business studies, accounting, maths, sciences and electrical/electronic engineering. However, any degree may be accepted if candidates have enthusiasm and aptitude for IT. Some entrants have an HNC/HND in IT or computing, but they usually also need relevant experience.
Most training is provided in house by employers, although there may also be the opportunity to attend external courses.
Business analysts may be promoted to consultant or senior consultant. They may move to other business areas like sales or project management. With experience they may become self-employed, working on a freelance basis or setting up their own consultancy.
Do you know of a useful and relevant website that would be helpful to our users? Tell us about it by emailing 
